At the risk of sounding like the old man that I am, I’ m not a fan of crowds. As summer wraps, so too does a full slate of over-crowded weekend activities.

From summer festivals to local concerts, fairs, flea markets, farmers markets and more, people are turning out in droves and paying up for the experience.

My family and I attended multiple events this summer that we have gone to in the past, only to find crowds two to three times what they once were. Even going to local museums has resulted in standing in crowds three deep just to catch a glimpse of an exhibit case before shuffling on.

And it’ s not just ticketed events that are feeling the crush. A beloved state park that I have visited since I was young now sees crowds exceeding 10,000 people on most weekend days. What was once a relaxing hike is now single-file lines moving at a snail’ s pace.

But I get it. People are tired of being in front of their screens, and they are going to maximize every weekend to make the most of it. We are all looking for that next“ fun” thing to do with family and friends. Meanwhile, apps and other digital notification options have ensured that even the smallest events are now on everyone’ s radar. Compounding the issue is the fact that many venues are struggling with staffing to enable better flow of traffic and more expedient service.

To help remedy these issues, venues are using timed-entry systems and members-only hours where applicable; as well as advanced security technology to expedite attendee screening and entry. Events and venues are also increasingly using follow-up surveys to allow attendees to rate their experience and provide feedback.

But as sporting events from Little League to the major leagues experience increased attendance, many of you are feeling the same pressures. Not to

mention other events at your venues in an effort to drive revenue. Increased event loads, busier schedules, tighter timeframes, and elevated expectations of fans and user groups are often met with streamlined budgets and limited staffing.

One sports field manager recently told me that their biggest challenge is“ the people.”

Educating stakeholders, user groups and even fans can be daunting. And getting a seat at the table when it comes to these decisions continues to be a challenge for many.

So, as you head into the fall sports schedule, my hope is that you are equipped not only with the tools and resources to produce the best and safest playing surfaces, but also the tools and resources to educate those who are utilizing your fields and facilities.

Best of luck this season, and just remember that, even on the most challenging days, you are not alone in the crowd

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